7-Night Trip on Explora II
Cruise
In Athens, cradle of philosophy and architectural wonders, we begin our exploration. Sail to the pine-fringed beaches and charming harbours of Skiathos, then stroll in the footsteps of ancients at Ephesus in Kusadasi. Explore the poetic soul and jade forests of Lesbos before absorbing vibrant rhythms, spice-scented bazaars and rich heritage in Istanbul. Loop back towards storied Athens, pausing on the way to enjoy the remarkable ruins and cosmopolitan sparkle of Mykonos.
Pricing and availability are supplied by our partner network and can change. Your ohsotravel agent confirms every detail before you book — no surprises.
Discover EXPLORA II, a beautifully crafted haven, the epitome of vibrant, cosmopolitan European elegance – a floating home-away-from-home.
Explora Journeys represents the ambition and long-held dream of the MSC Group and the Aponte family to create a transformative luxury ocean travel experience and brand that redefines the luxury cruise category.
This is a story that starts in Sorrento with a Neapolitan ferry captain, Gianluigi Aponte, who – together with the Swiss sweetheart he met when she was a passenger on one of his crossings – went on to create MSC, a global shipping operation and the world's largest privately-owned cruise company. Now this Swiss-Italian seafaring family are fulfilling their life-long dream and launching Explora Journeys, an exquisite, modern luxury cruise experience like no other.
The Aponte family records date back to the 17th century from which 300 years of sea-faring expertise, alongside an inherent passion and respect for the sea has developed.
Indeed, the ocean and its influence on us as human beings sits at the very heart of the Explora Journeys brand.
The oceans connect you with yourself, people and the places around you. It relaxes you, and creates an energy in you that inspires inner and outer discovery, broadens horizons and triggers new connections.
All of this, creates an emotional connection that is powerful, transformative, yet universal.
Explore the Ocean State of Mind introduces a new vision of luxury travel - one shaped by space, serenity, and the ever-changing ocean.
"If you want an indulgent, elevated cruise, look no further." -- Conde Nast Traveler
Maybe the best Journeys have almost everything included, creating a seamless, stress-free experience and complete peace of mind.
Maybe one check-in unlocks multiple destinations, where the best memories are made through our perfect blend of celebrated and lesser-travelled gems - a gentler pace, deeper immersion.
Maybe the best suite comes with a new view every day. Our oceanfront suites, penthouses, and residences await as your elegant Home at Sea.
Maybe the finest dinner is even finer with a sunset view, where each of our globally inspired culinary and beverage options tells a story at sea.
Maybe the news feels fresher with an ocean breeze. Our indoor and outdoor pools and whirlpools are designed for ultimate relaxation.
Rooted in a 300-year seafaring legacy, the Aponte family built MSC, the world's largest shipping company. In 2023, their vision was further realised with Explora Journeys, welcoming a new era for ultra-luxury ocean travel.
Intimate Explorations
Intimate, smaller groups with like-minded guests, for authentic exploration – with opportunities to understand the culture and connect with locals.
Explore with Peace of Mind
Seamless experiences with everything taken care of, no hidden fees, fully insured partners, transportation arrangements and flexibility in case of change of plans.
Authentic Immersions
Enriching opportunities to explore behind-the-scenes in unique locations. Crafted experiences curated in collaboration with expert partners and ambassadors.
Private Arrangements
We are pleased to curate your requests for customised arrangements that can be as off-the-beaten-path or utterly indulgent as you wish.
Whether yours is an intimate group or a larger gathering of family and friends, we can help you adapt a featured destination experience or tailor an arrangement that delivers exactly what and where you prefer.
Curated Explorations
Our Curated Explorations offer unmatched experiences and moments that are off-limits to most.
Your experiences will feature:
Destination Essentials
Our Destination Essentials offer immersive experiences, with hidden wonders and little surprises.
Your experiences will feature:
Overland Immersions
Our Overland Immersions are all-inclusive and available to small groups during your Journey.
What to expect:
A carefully considered collection of inclusions elevates every Journey, ensuring ease, comfort, and exceptional value throughout. As you move through suite categories, the Explora Journeys experience is further enhanced, with added levels of thoughtful refinement.
Plus additional benefits for guests of Ocean Penthouses & Ocean Residences.
Worldly, sophisticated, and well-travelled, our food and beverage experts bring an abundance of experience and artistry to the curation of our immersive, onboard dining experiences. Seasonal and soulful, each dish and drink tells a story, elevating our culinary offering to an unforgettable experience at sea.
Anthology
As our signature fine-dining experience, Anthology elevates Italian cuisine, offering an unparalleled gastronomic adventure.
On the menu, created by our esteemed Head of Culinary, Franck Garanger, each dish is a celebration of Italy's finest regional ingredients and flavours.
Sakura
Named after Japan's iconic cherry blossom, Sakura blends contemporary elegance with the vibrant spirit of Asia's culinary capitals. With sweeping ocean views, guests enjoy Mediterranean Bluefin tuna, wagyu tataki, and freshly prepared sushi — paired with curated sakes, shōchūs, and Asian beers.
A modern expression of immersive Pan-Asian cuisine.
Marble & Co. Grill
Marble & Co. Grill is a vibrant celebration of European steakhouse tradition, elevated by French-inspired finesse. Its name reflects delicate marbling - the hallmark of the world's finest cuts.
Sustainably sourced meats are grilled to perfection before guests, while an in-house dry ager and a thoughtfully curated wine cellar complete the experience. Classic yet contemporary, it is a dining journey defined by craft, character, and quiet sophistication.
Med Yacht Club
Inspired by the region's sun-drenched coastlines, Med Yacht Club captures the easy rhythm and convivial spirit of the Mediterranean. The menu brings together the flavours of Italy, Spain, Greece, France, and North Africa — a tapestry of coastal influences expressed through sharing plates created with authenticity and passion.
Emporium Marketplace
Named after the Greek word emporion ('place of exchange'), Emporium Marketplace celebrates global cuisine and the joy of discovery through food. Guests can explore a remarkable array of authentic flavours, from destination-inspired dishes to handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza.
Open kitchens buzz with quiet energy, while artisanal charcuterie, fromagerie and pâtisserie stations bring a refined touch. A chilled glass of Champagne partners perfectly with fresh crudo, as the sun sets on the horizon.
Fil Rouge
Fil Rouge is an elegant celebration of global cuisine, seen through the lens of French artistry. Its name — ' the red thread ' — speaks to the connections woven between cultures, flavours, and stories.
In a serene, though contemporary setting, time slows. The menu blends international inspiration with refined French technique, offering a dining experience that is both authentic and imaginative.
Evenings unfold with quiet indulgence - signature soufflés, a curated wine list, and the charm of the iconic dessert trolley. And in the morning, a hidden gem awaits: an exquisite breakfast, served with elegance and intention.
Shore Club on 11 at The Conservatory
A relaxed yet refined poolside setting where sun, warmth, and flavour come together. Freshly prepared favourites and vibrant bites influenced by sun-soaked coastal traditions are served in a laid-back, light-filled space perfect for unhurried moments and lingering afternoons. Inspired by carefree summer days by the sea, the coastal vistas, the glow of the sun, and the simple pleasures of elevated poolside dining.
In-Suite Dining
Our guests can enjoy an array of cuisines at any time, day or night, in the comfort of their suite or on their private terrace. Available 24 hours, the menu offers guests a taste of each of our unique dining destinations.
Chef's Kitchen
The Chef's Kitchen offers a range of enriching, hands-on culinary experience set within an intimate, ocean-front private kitchen.
Guided by our team of world-class chefs, immersive and interactive cooking classes invite guests of all skill levels to embrace the art of creating exquisite dishes – step by step, side by side with culinary masters and fellow travellers.
With intuitive guidance and a dash of playfulness, guests explore new techniques, uncover inspired flavour pairings, and work with beautifully curated ingredients that reflect the spirit of the sea and the lands we sail through. More than a cooking class, it's a social and sensory celebration – where learning is joyful, conversation flows freely, and food is savoured in good company.
Each experience culminates in the nearby private dining room, where the class – guests and chefs alike – gathers to enjoy the dishes they've prepared together.
An elegant, cosmopolitan atmosphere in which to discover, enjoy and appreciate diverse flavours and talents from around the world
Our Bars & Lounges offer the perfect blend of vibrancy and privacy across more than 12 indoor and outdoor settings.
Crema Café
A luxurious layer of crema nods to the freshness of an espresso and aptly lends authenticity and sophistication to a café at the centre of life on board.
Inspired by modern European café culture, Crema Café has softy stylish interiors with comfortable lounge seating, with access to a choice of reading materials and all set against uninterrupted views of the sea. A place to meet, discuss, unwind, taste and indulge, where like-minded guests gather to mingle and converse.
Coffee is chosen by selected connoisseurs who have travelled the world exploring fair-trade coffee origin, character, and strength. Discover the refined methods of brewing coffee from skilled baristas, taste high-quality loose-leaf teas with an on-hand tea expert, or enjoy refreshing cold-pressed juices. A glass display showcases pastries, cakes, desserts and sweets including madeleines, cannelés, biscotti, navette sandwiches as well as gelato throughout the day.
Lobby Bar
Located at the heart of the ship, the Lobby is a laid-back, relaxed social hub, perfect for breathing in the onboard ambiance. A natural stop for an aperitif, a post-dinner moment with live music, or a gentle pause throughout the day.
Explora Lounge
Explora Lounge is a central meeting place bathed in natural light, where guests can watch the world sail by as they enjoy light meals, snacks, and traditional afternoon tea. Perfect for a quiet moment to read, work or sip a coffee, or simply admire the beautiful ocean views, easing the mind into a calming space.
Cool and soothing background music transitions to live jazz and piano at night. The perfect soundtrack to your journey paired with a sunset aperitivo in hand.
Here, guests can enjoy light meals, snacks, traditional afternoon tea, along with inventive modern cocktails, barista-made coffees, loose leaf teas, smoothies, and fresh pressed juices.
Malt Whisky Bar
Set within the Explora Lounge, Malt offers a refined tour of the global whisky regions, including some of the rarest whiskies, complete with a walk-in humidor, cigar expert and a dedicated outdoor cigar-smoking terrace.
Alongside its drinks menu with an emphasis on dark brown spirits the bar also features an outdoor smoking area for guests to enjoy their hand-rolled cigars*, selected with the guidance of our cigar expert. A range of signature whiskey-based cocktails are also available, curated exclusively for Explora Journeys and served accompanied by the smooth sounds of jazz.
The Cellar by Explora Journeys
Refreshingly relaxed, The Cellar by Explora Journeys creates a welcoming space where wine is enjoyed through curiosity, easy conversation, and genuine pleasure. Its collection brings together characterful Old World classics, expressive New World favourites, and a few quietly remarkable rarities.
Our Cellar Masters share their passion with an intuitive, light touch – offering guidance or a gentle surprise when the moment feels right. Whether it's an aperitivo, a bottle carried through dinner, or a final glass with chocolate truffles, the experience feels personal, comfortable, and quietly elevated.
Journeys Lounge
The most spacious onboard lounge welcomes mixology specialists, enrichment activities and cabaret-style entertainment daily. This venue is designed to continuously evolve and transform throughout the day to suit the changing mood of your ocean journey.
Astern Lounge
The Astern Lounge is the social hub of any journey, with a collection of daily events and happenings suited to every taste.
Effortlessly transitioning throughout the day, Astern Lounge hosts live music, DJ sessions and enrichment insights with a collection of handpicked tastemakers. Coming to life at sundown, the lounge perfects the aperitivo through a nightly ritual celebrating golden hour, complemented by live entertainment.
Astern Pool & Bar
An all-day lounge next to the infinity pool, ideal for a waterfront escape offering chilled beach club vibes, with low background music by day and acoustic musicians and DJs as the sun sets, continuing throughout the evening.
Outdoor dining is available from nearby restaurant, Sakura in the form of nutritious bento boxes, conveniently served seated at a table, a lounger or a poolside sunbed.
Atoll Pool & Bar
A laidback venue where guests can enjoy the sun, sea and serenity day-long, accompanied by a selection of energising, colourful drinks.
Helios Pool & Bar
Inspired by the Ancient Greek God of Sun, Helios, translating literally to sun in Greek, is an adults-only area and the sunniest spot onboard. Panoramically facing forward on deck 12, guests canm enjoy lying by the pool or lounging throughout the day as they watch the ship sail through the sea.
Sky Bar On 14
Set on the ship's highest point, on deck 14, this panoramic outdoor lounge setting is ideal for soothing cocktails and infinite views.
The Conservatory Pool & Bar
The Conservatory is a weather-protected poolside lounge by day. By night, it turns into a cinema experience under the stars. A relaxed, calming venue to unwind and enjoy cocktails, with light, lively background music playing throughout the day.
Gelateria & Creperie at The Conservatory
Set in the relaxed, weather-protected poolside Conservatory, this is the place to treat yourself to authentic French and Italian indulgencies.
Connect deeper to the Ocean State of Mind. Curate a unique collection of treatments and rituals across spa, fitness, beauty and wellbeing.
Unwind, invigorate and energise. Empower your body and uplift your soul with all it deserves.
The Spa
Designed to reconnect guests to themselves – influenced at every level by the calming presence of the ocean.
*Spa treatments, including massages and facials, require a minimum age of 12 years, with parental supervision. Access to our Wellness area and thermal facilities is reserved for guests aged 16 years and above.
*Spa treatments cannot be booked until 90 days prior to embarkation.
Fitness
Over 350 sqm (3,750 sq ft) of indoor and outdoor fitness facilities designed in partnership with Technogym.
Beauty
Step inside The Beauty Studio - a serene, flowing space, designed to meet all your beauty needs. From indulgent hair rituals and precision, barber treatments to rejuvenating hand and foot care, every service is delivered with intention and care.
Wellbeing
From sleep to nutrition , our collection of initiatives has been carefully curated to ensure each and every guests has the opportunity to enhance their sense of wellbeing, no matter their fitness levels or abilities.
The signature scent of our ships, curated with master perfumer Alberto Morillas. An intense fragrance that relaxes, connects, awakens the senses for ultimate transformation.
The Gifts of Ocean Wellness
Whether dancing to energetic DJ sets under the stars at Sky Bar on 14, finessing pickleball skills with infinite ocean views, or being mesmerised by world-class talent from the iconic West End in the Journeys Lounge - our sophisticated entertainment choices provide an elegant and varied vibe across all our indoor and outdoor spaces – day and night.
Your vibe, your choice.
Each moment invites you to embrace your own Ocean State of Mind
World-Class Performances
Immerse yourself in curated, world-class performances by our distinguished roster of guest artistes, from Broadway and West End icons to Steinway Artistes. Whether masterful expressions of music or authentic local performances, these acts will capture your imagination.
Curated Moments
Thoughtfully curated gatherings that reflect the spirit of Explora Journeys, bringing guests and hosts together through captivating performances, cultural celebrations, and unique moments that create lasting memories.
Engaging Sessions
Numerous daytime events and activities that include programmed, organised activities like sports and games, plus spontaneous surprise activations such as a pool game or dance classes.
Clubs
Explora Journeys presents a thoughtfully curated collection of clubs, offering guests meaningful opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests, values, and lifestyles. Whether travelling solo, embracing diversity, or seeking a mindful, alcohol-free space, each gathering fosters connection and a genuine sense of community at sea.
Steinway & Sons handcraft the finest grand pianos, played by the world's greatest pianists since 1853. Guests will enjoy recitals by iconic pianists who have played at renowned concert halls. The Steinway Spirio high resolution player pianos set the stage to our enrichment programme, a celebration of musical excellence.
This innate respect is why Explora Journeys – in partnership with Italian shipbuilder, Fincantieri – is committed to crafting the vessels of tomorrow, utilising the very latest in environmentally supportive technologies whilst being primed to adapt to alternative energy solutions as they become available.
Explora Journeys commits to developing groundbreaking technologies that will help create a more positive future, for both our generation and those to come.
Our fleet design incorporates provision for battery storage allowing future hybrid power generation, as well as the latest selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, enabling a reduction of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 90%.
Single-use plastics are never used onboard, nor are they offered during land-based experiences - a dedication to leaving a positive impression on the places and people visited.
EXPLORA I & EXPLORA II
Environmental Supporting Features
Environmental Technologies
EXPLORA III and beyond are powered by LNG but always looking to the future. This includes a project which is examining the capability of a large fuel cell transforming LNG into hydrogen onboard EXPLORA VI, which would significantly reduce emissions. EXPLORA V will be built to allow for a potential retrofit of this technology in the future. EXPLORA VI, however, will be delivered with a fuel cell and hydrogen system on board.
Prices subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.
from $6,400
View DealTravel ideas, deals, and destination tips, straight to your inbox.
© 2026 OhSoTravel Agency, a d/b/a of Enniscope LLC. All rights reserved.
TRAVEL
